Castlemaine Poetry Prize returns

Entries for the 2019 Castlemaine Poetry Prize are now open.After a recess in 2017-2018, while Castlemaine Mail editor Lisa Dennis was on maternity leave, the popular competition returns in 2019.Entries are now open in the Senior (over 16) section. Two awards will be presented this year for ‘Best Poem’ and the ‘Judge’s Choice Award’.There are three categories (and prizes) for juniors. The sections are for Grade 2 and Under, Grade 6 and Under and Year 10 and Under.The poem must not have been published or have won another prize, a strict maximum of 40 lines applies and all entries should be double spaced. Poets can choose any theme. There is no entry fee but only three entries from each poet are allowed.Contact details, including a phone number must be enclosed but preferably not on the same page as the poem.Castlemaine poets Tegan Gigante and Annie Hunter will judge this year’s competition.Elliott Midland Newspapers is proudly sponsoring the 2019 Castlemaine Poetry Prize which carries a first prize of $100 (Senior section) and an award. The ‘Judge’s Choice Award’ is proudly supported by Soldier and Scholar Bookshop and the winner will receive an award and a $50 book voucher.Mount Alexander Shire Council is sponsoring the three junior prizes with the winner of each section to receive a trophy and $50 book voucher.Selected entries, including the winning poems, will be published in the Castlemaine Mail.Entries can be submitted via email to ldennis@midnews.com.au, mailed to 2019 Castlemaine Poetry Prize, 29 Templeton Street, Castlemaine, VIC 3450 or dropped into our office at the same address. The junior section closes on Friday July 26 at 5pm and the senior section closes on Friday August 9 at 5pm. For more information call Lisa on 5472 1788.The awards will be presented to our winners at ceremonies to be held in mid September. Stay tuned for details.